asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware of the unusually protracted negotiations which have been and are being experienced by landowners whose holdings are being flooded by the Lee Hydro Electric Scheme and that an impression has been created that higher compensation can be obtained by extended negotiations; and, if so, whether he will make representations to the E.S.B. to make equitable offers at first interviews so as to dispel the impression already created and expedite the payment of compensation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Lee Hydro Electric Scheme
Mr. Lynch
I have no functions in connection with the payment of compensation to landholders whose holdings are affected by a hydro electric scheme. Any representations which the Deputy may wish to make should be addressed to the E.S.B.
These representations have been made and the position is an extremely grave one. Would the Parliamentary Secretary ask the Minister to make some representations to the E.S.B. to expedite the compensation? Further, is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that solicitors, when they are now made an offer by the E.S.B., will not bring the farmers into their offices because they are aware of the fact that it is not a real offer? In many cases they have to come in 30 and 40 times before there is anything by way of a realistic offer made on the part of the E.S.B.
Mr. Lynch
Every effort is made to make a realistic valuation of any lands acquired under the Electricity Supply Act, 1945, and not only that but landholders whose lands are expected to be acquired are given the opportunity of employing a valuer and a solicitor at the expense of the E.S.B. and in the final result the question is one for an arbitrator. The Deputy must agree that in such an event it is not proper for the Minister to interfere.